Carnival Cruise Lines is expanding its previously announced program of seven-day, four-port Exotic Eastern Caribbean voyages from Miami, featuring visits to stunning Half Moon Cay, a private Bahamian island, and Grand Turk, Turks & Caicos Islands, on the 2,758-passenger Carnival Triumph. The itinerary also features the widely popular ports of St. Thomas, U.S.V.I. and San Juan, Puerto Rico.

The cruises were originally scheduled to be offered every other week from April through August 2007 followed by Carnival Triumph’s shift to New Orleans to operate weekly Caribbean cruises from that port beginning late August 2007. Instead, Carnival Triumph will remain in Miami at least through April 2008 and the Exotic Eastern Caribbean itinerary will switch from every other week to weekly beginning August 25, 2007.

We’ve received a tremendous amount of enthusiasm from consumers and travel agents in response to the Carnival Triumph’s new Exotic Eastern Caribbean itinerary, said Bob Dickinson, Carnival president and CEO. By the same token, there are lingering misconceptions by the vacationing public as to the recovery of New Orleans’ tourism infrastructure, which has necessitated a re-evaluation of our timeline for adding a second ship to that port.

Carnival re-introduced its cruise program from New Orleans in October 2006 with the launch of four and five-day cruises on the SuperLiner Fantasy. According to Dickinson, We are committed to New Orleans and, not only will the Fantasy remain there, but we will continue our efforts to build consumer interest in cruising from New Orleans and to counter some of the erroneous perceptions of the city that are currently posing a challenge. In the meantime, we do not feel the timing is right to place a second ship there just yet, said Dickinson.

Highlights of the Carnival Triumph’s ‘Exotic Eastern Caribbean’ itinerary from Miami include Half Moon Cay, a stunning Bahamian private island; St. Thomas, U.S.V.I., whose postcard-perfect beaches, gorgeous mountain terrain and endless shopping make it an ever-popular favorite; a daytime call in San Juan, Puerto Rico, known for its rich cultural heritage and fascinating historical sites; and Grand Turk, Turks & Caicos Islands, the Caribbean’s newest port of call, offering world-renowned snorkeling, diving and spectacular beaches, along with an expansive shopping complex and spacious pool/entertainment facility, including a Caribbean-themed bar and restaurant, Margaritaville.

On certain sailing dates, the ports of call on the Carnival Triumph’s ‘Exotic Eastern Caribbean’ program may vary.

The Carnival Triumph features a wide variety of amenities, including a 15,000-square-foot spa, a jogging track, full casino gambling, and 18 stylish lounges and bars. Dining options include twin two-level restaurants offering extensive menus and wine lists and a casual poolside eatery offering a wide array of tempting cuisine, as well as 24-hour pizza and ice cream/frozen yogurt.

The ship also features cellular phone service, an Internet cafe, and wireless Internet access in virtually all public rooms and areas.

Carnival Triumph offers a wide variety of spacious accommodations, including spectacular suites and an expansive array of staterooms featuring ocean views from private balconies – ideal for scenic Caribbean cruising. All accommodations feature the new Carnival Comfort Bed sleep system including plush mattresses, luxurious duvets, and high quality pillows and linens.

All Carnival ships feature the line’s top-rated Camp Carnival children’s program, as well as Club O2, created in partnership with Coca-Cola, which offers specialized activities and facilities for teens.